Leading the way, Christina Luna-Castaños and Luis C. Luna, strive to elevate the role of teachers because teaching – is the most important profession. It influences all other professions.

Both educators received the region’s highest teaching honor for their ability to inspire their students at an award ceremony at the El Paso Convention Center on Saturday, July 22.

Luna-Castaños, a fifth grade teacher at Purple Heart Elementary in the Socorro Independent School District was named Elementary Teacher of the Year. And Luna, a History teacher at Clint Junior High in the Clint Independent School District was named Secondary Teacher of the Year.

Through this recognition, Luna-Castaños aims to represent and be the voice for many students and fellow teachers.

“Our passion is to find the meaningful joys in teaching. When we shed the light on all the positive things happening in education, promising teachers will be drawn to our profession,” said Luna-Castaños. “By attracting those aspiring individuals called to our profession, we can all better shape the future of our society.”

As for Luna, he takes this opportunity to guide and enlighten other educators.

“Our profession calls for us to be teachers, counselors, mothers, fathers, motivators, listeners, and coaches,” said Luna. “Teachers impact students’ lives every day. We must motivate our students and peers to be the best. Teachers are like coaches of the NBA, NFL, MLB; we coach our athletes to win the ultimate championship.”

Luna-Castaños and Luna advance to compete for the Texas Teacher of the Year title in Austin, Texas on September 15.

In addition to the Region 19 top two educators, 20 District Teachers of the Year were also honored.

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